FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has announced that President Bola Tinubu is working to restore the standard and glamour of the Abuja International Conference Centre (ICC). Wike made this statement on Wednesday while speaking to journalists after inspecting various projects in the Federal Capital City.
He recalled that the ICC was in disrepair during the President’s visit for the inauguration of the ECOWAS Parliament, prompting Tinubu to order its immediate shutdown and complete rehabilitation.
Delving into the history of the ICC, Wike expressed regret over its decline. He recounted reading a book by former President Ibrahim Babangida (IBB) that detailed the Centre’s conception. Wike explained that during a time when Ethiopia was under a communist government, security concerns prevented an Organization of African Unity (OAU) meeting from being held in Addis Ababa. As a result, Nigeria was chosen as the host, and the idea of building an International Conference Centre emerged. This project was funded through an “oil swap” arrangement.
Wike lamented that the ICC had been neglected and allowed to “die” due to mismanagement. He noted that it had been given to a particular senator who profited from it while failing to maintain the facility. However, with President Tinubu’s support, the FCT Administration made the necessary decisions to revitalize the ICC.
Julius Berger Nigeria PLC, the company handling the extensive renovation of the ICC, has committed to completing the project by May, with approximately 80% of the work already finished. Wike expressed optimism about the company’s timely delivery.
The Minister assured that Nigerians are receiving the best possible service and thanked President Tinubu for his ongoing support and determination to restore hope to the nation.
In addition to the ICC, Wike inspected other projects, including the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) and N5, which traverses the Gwarinpa I District (Life Camp). He assured that these projects would also be ready by May in time for the President’s second anniversary.
AbujaICC,NyesomWike,BolaTinubu,InfrastructureRevival,JuliusBerger,FCTProjects,UrbanDevelopment,
